Umm Gamar Island
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Umm Gamar Island, a Red Sea gem teeming with diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs, perfect for snork...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Calm seas, great visibility
Umm Gamar Island
Best Time
Calm seas, great visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Umm Gamar Island, a Red Sea gem teeming with diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs, perfect for snorkelers and divers.
"Umm Gamar is one of the best dive sites in the Red Sea, with rich marine life and shallow plateaus."
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Umm Gamar Island, especially during peak season.
Check Dive Certifications
Umm Gamar offers sites for all levels, from novice to advanced. Know your certification before booking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Coral Reefs
The entire island perimeter
Explore a stunning underwater world teeming with colorful corals and diverse fish species. Perfect for all diving levels.
Abundant Marine Life
Shallow plateaus and deeper drops
Witness a breathtaking variety of fish, making it a top Red Sea dive site. Keep an eye out for unique species!
Novice Diver's Haven
Shallow dive plateaus
Ideal for beginners with accessible depths and clear waters, offering a fantastic introduction to Red Sea diving.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive into Paradise: Planning Your Umm Gamar Trip
Best Time for Underwater Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Umm Gamar Island, especially during peak season.
Check Dive Certifications
Umm Gamar offers sites for all levels, from novice to advanced. Know your certification before booking.
Pack for Sun and Sea
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Snorkel gear is often provided, but bring your own if preferred.
Respect Marine Life
Do not touch or disturb the coral or marine animals. Enjoy the beauty responsibly.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Umm Gamar Island, especially during peak season.
Check Dive Certifications
Umm Gamar offers sites for all levels, from novice to advanced. Know your certification before booking.
Pack for Sun and Sea
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Snorkel gear is often provided, but bring your own if preferred.
Respect Marine Life
Do not touch or disturb the coral or marine animals. Enjoy the beauty responsibly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Umm Gamar Island is overwhelmingly praised for its exceptional marine life and vibrant coral reefs, making it a top destination for both divers and snorkelers. Visitors highlight the accessibility for beginners and the sheer variety of fish. Some minor drawbacks include the reliance on boat tours for access and the potential for crowded conditions during peak season.
"Amazing place for beginners divers. Reef is big and variety of fishes is stunning."
Povilas Sinkevičius
"Access
From Boat
Diver level
Novice
Depth
Average: 23 m
Maximum: 37 m
Current
"
Sameh Mostafa
"Very nice place for diving or snorkeling."
Ivan der BOESE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Umm Gamar Island is accessible exclusively by boat. Most visitors book day trips or diving excursions from Hurghada. These tours typically include boat transport, often with lunch and snorkeling equipment provided.
No, there are no public ferries to Umm Gamar Island. Access is limited to organized boat tours and diving trips.
The most common and recommended way is to book a boat tour from Hurghada Marina or through your hotel. Many operators offer dedicated diving or snorkeling trips.
The boat journey from Hurghada to Umm Gamar Island typically takes between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the boat's speed and sea conditions.
Umm Gamar Island is primarily a day-trip destination. There are no accommodations for overnight stays on the island itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't buy separate tickets for the island itself. The cost is usually included in the boat tour or diving package you book.
Prices vary depending on the operator and what's included, but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 USD per person for a full-day trip.
Some boat tours might have a small environmental or park fee, but this is usually bundled into the tour price. Always clarify what's included.
Yes, you can book tours upon arrival, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Most boat tours to Umm Gamar Island depart in the morning, typically between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, returning in the late afternoon.
🎫 🐠 Underwater Experience
Absolutely! Umm Gamar is fantastic for snorkeling, with shallow reefs easily accessible from the boat and abundant marine life visible near the surface.
You can expect to see a wide variety of Red Sea fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and possibly even turtles or rays. The coral formations are also very impressive.
Yes, Umm Gamar is highly recommended for novice divers. It features shallow plateaus with plenty of marine life, making it a safe and rewarding learning environment.
The average depth for diving at Umm Gamar is around 23 meters, with some areas dropping to a maximum of 37 meters, offering diverse dive experiences.
Currents can vary, but they are generally manageable, especially in the shallower areas. Dive guides will assess conditions to ensure safety.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Use a waterproof camera or action camera. Get close to your subjects without disturbing them, and utilize natural light as much as possible.
Yes, the island itself offers scenic views, and the boat journey provides opportunities for capturing the Red Sea landscape and sunsets.
For underwater photography, try to shoot in good light. If using a flash, experiment with angles to avoid backscatter. Many modern action cameras have good underwater modes.
If you plan to take photos with your phone underwater, a reliable waterproof pouch or housing is essential to protect your device.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected marine areas or due to local regulations. It's best to check with your tour operator beforehand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for tours that provide kid-sized snorkeling gear and ensure the boat has shaded areas for protection from the sun. The excitement of seeing colorful fish can be a memorable experience for younger travelers. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water. While there are no specific play areas, the natural environment provides ample opportunities for exploration and wonder.
🐠 Diving Enthusiasts
Divers should be prepared for varying depths, with average sites around 23 meters and some reaching up to 37 meters. It's advisable to book with a dive center that prioritizes small group sizes and experienced divemasters who know the best spots and can guide you safely through any currents. The rich biodiversity ensures that every dive can reveal something new and exciting.
Budget Travelers
Opt for tours that offer a good balance of inclusions without unnecessary extras. Many standard boat trips include lunch and snorkeling gear, which are essential. Consider if you truly need a private charter or if a group tour will suffice. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save a little money on board.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Diving and Snorkeling Paradise
Snorkelers will also find Umm Gamar incredibly rewarding. The clear, warm waters provide excellent visibility, and the reefs are close enough to the surface to be enjoyed without diving equipment. Many boat tours include snorkeling stops, making it an accessible activity for everyone. The sheer abundance of fish means you're almost guaranteed to see something spectacular, from schools of shimmering damselfish to larger reef dwellers. It's a truly immersive experience that highlights the natural beauty of the Red Sea.
When planning your visit, consider that access is exclusively by boat. Booking a reputable tour operator is key to a smooth experience. Many tours offer equipment rental, but bringing your own mask and snorkel can ensure a comfortable fit. Always remember to practice responsible tourism by not touching the coral or disturbing the marine animals, preserving this delicate ecosystem for future visitors.
Navigating Your Trip to Umm Gamar
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. While some operators might offer last-minute bookings, relying on this can be risky. The journey itself typically takes between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of the Red Sea. Most tours depart in the morning and return in the late afternoon, making it a full-day excursion.
It's important to note that Umm Gamar is a protected marine area, and access is managed through these tours. There are no facilities for overnight stays, and visitors are expected to adhere to environmental guidelines. Always confirm what is included in your tour package, such as the quality of snorkeling gear, the availability of wetsuits (especially in cooler months), and any potential extra fees for park access.
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